Perceptions and Attitudes of Community Health Promoters Towards Utilization of Electronic Community Health Information System in Management of Malaria in Nyalenda B Ward, Kisumu County, Kenya

Abstract

Digital health technologies are increasingly recognized as important tools for strengthening primary healthcare systems and advancing Universal Health Coverage (UHC). In Kenya, the Ministry of Health introduced the electronic Community Health Information System (eCHIS) to support Community Health Promoters (CHPs) in delivering and reporting community-based health services. However, evidence on its utilization in malaria-endemic settings remains limited. This study assessed the perceptions and attitudes of Community Health Promoters towards utilization of eCHIS in malaria management in Nyalenda B Ward, Kisumu County. An analytical cross-sectional mixed-methods study was conducted among 66 CHPs. Quantitative data were collected using semi-structured questionnaires and analyzed using descriptive statistics while qualitative data were collected through focus group discussions and key informant interviews and analyzed thematically. Overall,63.6% of CHPs demonstrated high eCHIS utilization. Most respondents agreed that eCHIS improved management of community health activities (93.9%), made work easier (93.9%), enhanced community trust (81.8%), increased satisfaction (87.9%), and motivated continued use (86.4%). Qualitative findings showed that CHPs perceived eCHIS as useful for reducing paperwork, improving efficiency, strengthening community trust, and enhancing service delivery despite initial challenges in adapting to smartphone-based reporting. The study concludes that Community Health Promoters had positive perceptions and attitudes towards eCHIS utilization, demonstrating strong acceptance of the system for malaria management. Maintaining positive user experiences through continuous engagement and support may promote sustained utilization of eCHIS in community-based malaria management.